Story perspectives

New Forest Split Faces 10,000 Signatures in Opposition

4/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The government plans to split the New Forest administration into two authorities by 2028.
Local residents, including Della Keable, fear the change will fragment community heritage and land ties.
New Forest Together has collected over 10,000 signatures opposing the reorganization and its urban bias.
Southampton city council supports the plan, arguing it will improve public services.
Locals warn the split could threaten their way of life and the forest's ecology.

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Story summary

The government plans to split the New Forest administration into two authorities by 2028.
Local residents, including Della Keable, fear the change will fragment community heritage and land ties.
New Forest Together has collected over 10,000 signatures opposing the reorganization and its urban bias.
Southampton city council supports the plan, arguing it will improve public services.
Locals warn the split could threaten their way of life and the forest's ecology.